Joan Rivers 'on life support' while family decide what to do

Joan Rivers has been placed on life support, according to new sources.

The 81-year-old comedienne, who was put in a medically-induced coma after she stopped breathing while having throat surgery on Thursday, is now completely dependent on the machine, TMZ reported.

Joan's family, including her daughter Melissa who flew from Los Angeles to New York to be by her mother's side, will have to choose over the next few days whether they keep the star on life support.

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Joan Rivers was placed in a medically-induced comain a New York hospital

Family members are hopeful that if they do switch off the machine, Joan will pull through and come out of the coma, the American website added.

Television personality Melissa released a statement the day following her mum's health scare, in which she asked fans to keep praying.

"My mother would be so touched by the tributes and prayers that we have received from around the world," said Melissa. "Her condition remains serious but she is receiving the best treatment and care possible. We ask that you continue to keep her in your thoughts as we pray for her recovery."

A spokesperson for the Mount Sinai hospital in New York, where Joan is currently residing, added: "Her family wants to thank everybody for their outpouring of love and support. We will provide an update on her condition as it becomes available."

Joan Rivers' daughter Melissa (right) flew from Los Angeles to be with her mum

While no news was given on Saturday, a host of Joan's fans and famous friends took to Twitter to express their concern.

"4 the first time in years I got down on my knees & prayed tonight! I encourage U 2 do the same 4 @Joan_Rivers my grandma! #inconsolable," wrote Kelly Osbourne, who co-hosts Fashion Police with the actress.

"Praying for @Joan_Rivers and @MelRivers. Even though Joan's the strongest woman I know, every single prayer counts. I love you, Joan," posted co-star Giuliana Rancic.

Joan had been undergoing a throat procedure on her vocal chords at a local clinic, when she stopped breathing and suffered cardiac arrest on Thursday. She was immediately rushed to hospital in New York where she was placed in a coma.

The star had shown no signs of illness days prior to her operation, recording scenes for Fashion Police as scheduled and performing gigs as part of her current North American tour. Her Friday night show at a theatre in Red Bank, New Jersey was cancelled as result.